The Pride of Africa, Mike Adenuga, at 71

Age is not a guarantee of wisdom, but in the case of Dr. Mike Adenuga, each passing year seems to enrich his legacy and deepen his impact on the African business landscape. As he approaches his 71st birthday on April 29, 2024, the world marvels at the enduring wisdom and towering achievements of this titan of industry.

Last year, when he turned 70, accolades poured in from global leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, and Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, extolling the virtues of this African icon. Why would such grand gestures be made by these world leaders? Simple: there is something special about Dr. Adenuga.

Born into modest beginnings, Adenuga’s ascent to the upper echelons of business is a testament to his tenacity, vision, and relentless pursuit of excellence. His company, Globacom, stands as Nigeria’s second-largest telecom operator and boasts a presence in Ghana and Benin, solidifying his status as a key player in Africa’s telecommunications landscape.

Adenuga’s entrepreneurial journey began with humble roots, working as a taxi driver to support his university education. His early ventures in lace trading and soft drink distribution laid the foundation for his future success. In 1991, his company, Consolidated Oil, made history by striking oil in South-western Ondo State, marking a significant milestone as the first indigenous oil company to do so in commercial quantity.

Throughout his illustrious career, Adenuga has been recognized with numerous accolades and honours, including being named African Entrepreneur of The Year and receiving the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger from the Nigerian government. His contributions to business and society have earned him a Yoruba tribal chieftaincy as the Otunba Apesin of the Ijebu clan and the prestigious Commander of the Legion of Honor from President Macron of France.

As he celebrates another year of life and achievements, Dr. Adenuga remains an inspiration to both existing and aspiring entrepreneurs and a symbol of Africa’s boundless potential. At 71, his legacy of resilience, innovation, and philanthropy continues to shape the economic landscape of the continent and inspire generations to come.